SAFTA Certificate: A Comprehensive Guide

What is a SAFTA Certificate?

SAFTA Certificate known as “Certificate of Origin” which is a formal document issued to exporter and importer of India issued by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade). This Certification ensures that the exporting and importing goods meet the criteria for being considered “originating” from within the SAFTA region. It allows them to get advantages from preferential tariffs within the SAFTA member nations. As per the terms mentioned in the SAFTA agreement, the nations agreed on eliminating and reducing tariffs on goods and services to facilitate cost-effective cross-border trade. This certification helps to supervise its execution and maintain potential issues, the agreement also calls for the formation of an expert committee.

Eligibility for SAFTA Certificate

Here is the eligibility for SAFTA Certificate given below:

The goods which applied for SAFTA Certification must have originated in India.

The goods export destination must be to any of the SAFTA member countries.

The product applied for SAFTA certification must have a minimum percentage of the product's value that should originate within India.

It should be directly shipped from India to the SAFTA Country without transiting by non-SAFTA nations.

Advantages of SAFTA Certificate

Obtaining SAFTA Certificate has multiple advantages such as -

Importers may enjoy reduced or completely eliminated taxes on products originating from SAFTA nations which helps to encourage cost-affecting trade.

It helps to expand their business into neighboring south asian countries with these competitive pricing benefits.

This certification also simplifies the documentation process at customs, promoting faster clearances and reducing inspection delays.

Business with SAFTA certification which is issued by the DGFT aids to build trust of the exporter and also builds long-term trade relationships.

SAFTA promotes economic interdependence and cooperation among SAARC nations, improving geopolitical and trade stability.

Documents Required for SAFTA Certificate

For the smooth acquisition of the SAFTA Certificate, Indian exporters must gather the following documents:

Import-Export Code (IEC) Certificate

Certificate of registration of company or organization

Details of each director, partner, or proprietor

Exporter details

Commercial Invoice

Bill detailing the quantity or country of origin of materials or consumables used in export goods

Declaration from the manufacturer on the letterhead

Product details

Details of Raw materials

Description of goods

Purchase order from the importer

Digital signature of Organization

DSC Software

Cost statements

CUSDECS and Imports Invoice for confirming imported raw materials

Process for Obtaining SAFTA Certificate

Stepwise process for SAFTA certification is as follow:

• Step 01: Go to the DGFT portal and register with it. Before it the exporter ensures that they must have a valid IEC (Importer-Exporter Code).
• Step 02: Checkout your product eligibility according to the Rules of Origin under the SAFTA agreement to assure your product qualifies for preferential treatment.
• Step 03: Fill the CoO (Certificate of Origin) form which must include - exporter details, goods details, shipping and destination details.
• Step 04: Upload the correct supporting documents, including the commercial invoice, any declaration required and packing list.
• Step 05: Submit the application via common digital platform CoO that is - https://coo.dgft.gov.in.
• Step 06: After the application submission, the DGFT office examines the application and documents. If it hasn’t any discrepancies, they will issue the Certification of Origin under the SAFTA.

Fees for SAFTA Certificate

• Government Fees: ₹736/-
• One-Time Registration fees: ₹500/-
• Application Fees: ₹2000/-
• Total Charges: ₹3236/-

Why Choose RegisterAdda?

Choosing RegisterAdda for your SAFTA Certificate can be a wise choice, and here’s how it can help make the SAFTA registration process smoother and more efficient. Below mentioned are the reasons to choose RegisterAdda:

Expert Guidance and Experienced Personnel

Streamlined Process

Personalized Service

Accuracy and Efficiency

Compliance Fulfillment

Support of Experts

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the SAFTA Certificate compulsory for exports to all SAARC countries?

The Safta Certificate is needed if the exporter wishes to go with preferential torrid benefits which comes under the SAFTA agreement.

2. Can I apply for the SAFTA Certificate online?

Yes, you can apply for SAFTA Certification online by using the DGFT portal.

3. Can I apply for multiple consignments at once?

No, you can not apply for multiple consignments at once, each SAFTA Certificate is issued for a specific consignment and invoice.

4. Does the certificate guarantee tariff exemption?

The SAFTA Certification does not automatically guarantee tariff exemption.

5. What happens if I don’t meet the Rules of Origin?

If you don’t meet the Rules of Origin, there are high chances to get rejected by the department.

6. Do I need a digital signature to apply?

Yes, you need a valid DSC to apply online through the DGFT portal.